Mixed-methods systematic review: Cultural attitudes, beliefs and practices of internationally educated nurses towards end-of-life care in the context of cancer.

Abstract

To identify and analyse the cultural attitudes, beliefs and practices of internationally educated nurses towards end-of-life care in the context of cancer. Cultural heritage shape beliefs and practices about cancer and end of life, which complicates nursing care delivery. While previous studies centred on diverse patients' perspectives and cultural competence of healthcare professionals, little analysis available focusing on the cultural attitudes and beliefs of care providers from diverse backgrounds. Mixed methods systematic review. CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO and Scopus were searched between January and March 2020. No date limit was applied. Quality appraisal was conducted using the mixed-method appraisal tool. Convergent segregated synthesis was undertaken. Findings were thematically synthesised with the final synthesis presented narratively. Seven studies were included: three qualitative, two quantitative and two mixed methods. None of the studies focused on the end-of-life care experiences of IENs in the context of cancer. One study reported views on cancer, with all studies analysing the cultural attitudes, beliefs and practices of internationally educated nurses towards end-of-life care. Three main themes were identified: the philosophy of care, approaches to care and perceptions of death and dying. The distinct gap in research on understanding the cultural attitudes and beliefs of internationally educated nurses in end-of-life care in the context of cancer demands further research. Several aspects of end-of-life care were in conflict with internationally educated nurses' cultural attitudes, beliefs and practices. As these nurses are integral in achieving culturally competent care, further understanding of this phenomenon is required to advance the delivery of culturally sensitive care to patients. Stakeholders, including the nursing workforce, need to play an active role in providing a culturally inclusive workplace. Support measures are necessary to reduce the impact of cultural conflicts experienced by internationally educated nurses.